If you are you looking for a fun and easy day trip from Buenos Aires, you don’t need to look very hard. Just one hour from the bustling city you can reach the picturesque town of Colonia del Sacramento, on the border of Argentina and Uruguay.
A Brief History of Colonia del Sacramento
Colonia, as the local call it, was founded by the Portuguese in 1680 as a fortress city and smuggling port. Its strategic position made Colonia de Sacramento the object of many disputes.
Over the centuries the remote little city changed hands several times between Spain, Portugal and Britain. Finally, in 1828 Colonia del Sacramento won its independence and officially became part of Uruguay.
How to Reach Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires
The easiest way to get to Colonia del Sacramento from Buenos Aires is by ferry. There are several companies that operate on this route. The fastest and most popular one is Buquebus, which departs from the ferry terminal in Puerto Madero and goes to Colonia del Sacramento in Uruguay.
The terminal is very modern, with all the amenities of a small airport or cruise ship terminal. There is is a check in, a baggage claim area, a snack bar and a couple of shops.
The fastest crossing takes one hour and the slow service takes three hours. The ferry is very comfortable and has a duty free shop and a small snack bar.
You have a choice between first class and tourist class. Seats are not assigned, so you can choose to sit wherever you please. To reserve your tickets you will need your passport. Also, you’ll have to be at the terminal one hour before departure.
It’s hard to call Rio de la Plata a river in this area. It’s estuary is so large that it looks more like a sea! If I didn’t know this was a river, I would have thought I am looking at a lake.
Best Things to Do in Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay
The town’s historic quarter is filled with old colonial buildings, cobbled streets, and quirky shops. For some reason, the atmosphere in Colonia del Sacramento reminded me a lot about Carmel Village, on the Pacific Coast drive from L.A. to San Francisco.
There are quite a few things to do in here in a day, so if you are planning to visit Colonia del Sacramento, Uruguay, here is a what you can do there.
• Stroll the through Barrio Historico (historic quarter)
One of the best things to do in Colonia delSacramento is simply wander the streets of the Barrio Histórico (historic quarter). Before visiting the museums or the monuments, you should take a stroll and enjoy the town’s atmosphere, people and pets.
Colonia seems to be the dog’s paradise. There are plenty of friendly dogs roaming roaming around through the historic town. And if you don’t object, they may offer to ramble with you through the neighborhoods.
• Take photos
Colonia del Sacramento is a photographer’s dream! The small cobbled streets and squares are filled with old buildings, vintage cars and quaint, little shops tucked away in the most inconspicuous places.
The Spanish and Portuguese influences are very visible all throughout the city, in the lighthouses, churches and the fortified walls.
• Visit the ruins of the San Francisco Convent
One of the historic landmarks that shouldn’t be missed in Colonia are the ruins of the Convent of San Francisco, dating back to the 17th century. The convent burned down in the 18th century, but many of the old walls are still standing and can be visited.
• Walk around the lighthouse
El Faro, the beautiful lighthouse that towers over the ruins, was built some years later from stones actually taken from the ruins of the convent.
• Visit Basilica del Sagrado Sacramento
Basilica of the Sacred Sacrament is the only church within the city walls. It is also the oldest church in Uruguay. That is most likely the reason why most visitors feel compelled to visit it. The church is beautiful, but very simple and conservative.
The historic quarter of Colonia was designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
• Visit at least one of the museums
Colonia’s museums are in the historic district, within a very short distance of one another. Some of them are located in old buildings that have been renovated and really worth a look.
The Portuguese Museum, housed in an 18th century building, features furniture, weaponry, and old maps of the area.
There is also the Tile Museum and Colonia’s Indigenous Museum, both housed in 19th century buildings.
The Historic Spanish Museum displays a collection of works of art, vintage weapons and replica costumes from the 17th and 18 century.
Dining in Colonia del Sacramento
There are many great restaurants in town, but that shouldn’t come as a surprise. Colonia del Sacramento is a tourist oriented town so there is very little chance to find bad food here. All the ingredients used in preparing the food are freshly grown in the next-door farms.
Also, due to the city’s proximity to the water, there is no shortage of fresh fish and seafood. The food in Colonia is very similar to Argentina: grilled meats, empanadas, pasta, and lots of tapas.
Experiencing the atmosphere and great food of these local restaurants is one of the things I enjoyed most in Colonia del Sacramento. Since many restaurants cater to tourists they accept foreign currency or credit cards, but it’s a good idea to check the payment options before ordering.
Getting around Colonia del Sacramento
Most of the things to do in Colonia del Sacramento are in the Barrio Historico (old town) which is very compact and easy to explore on foot. It only took us a 2-3 hours to stroll through it.
Once you arrive in Colonia del Sacramento and step out from the ferry terminal, there is a tourist information booth where you can stop for a map. From there you take a sharp left onto the street that runs along the river bank. There is no need to use public transport or take a taxi, because you will reach the center within ten to fifteen minutes of walking.
There is also a possibility to rent either bike, golf carts or scooters, in case you don’t want to walk, but my opinion is that you don’t need them.
Best Time to Visit Colonia de Sacramento, Uruguay
The seasons in Argentina are the reverse of those in the Northern Hemisphere. Fall and spring are the ideal times to visit this region.
Seeing how charming and laid back Colonia del Sacramento is, it occurred to me that we should have stayed a couple of days longer in Uruguay. Maybe even visited some other places, like Montevideo, the country’s capital. But we chose to visit the mighty Iguazu Falls instead, which I’m not sorry we did. However, I’d love to return to Uruguay someday.
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Ami Bhat
I love those bougainvilleas lined paths and the whole carefree atmosphere of the place. The ruins of the cathedral are quite intriguing. And I bet the views from the lighthouse will leave someone spellbound. You can go up – can’t you? Nice post.
Parnashree Devi
Colonia de Sacramento looks so beautiful. It is definitely a photographer’s delight. I loved the empty roads and the white architecture. Restaurant in Colonia de Sacramento looks also quirky. I would love to spend a couple of days here.
Giulia
Colonia del Sacramento looks like such a colorful gem, and since I love to take beautiful photos when I visit new places, this looks perfect for me. I would love to see the Lighthouse! I have never been to this part of the world before, but I will make sure to save this for a future trip.
Anda
It’s a nice day trip from Buenos Aires.
Yara
My gosh what a beautiful little town! I can’t imagine that this quaint place is just a ferry boat from Buenos Aires. There was a time where I always found my self in places known for cobblestone streets – this is just one more to add to my list!
Anda
Yes, Colonia is quite colorful!
Derek
Colonia del Sacramento looks like such a charming town. I’m instantly hooked with a destination that has beautiful architecture. The churches and lighthouses alone are stunning and the quaint streets and houses you shared look surreal. Bucket list approved!
Anda
Definitely needs to be on your bucket list.
Linda (LD Holland)
We had a busy 2 days in Buenos Aires. But want to go back. Good to collect some idea for day trips. I like the idea of doing a day trip by ferry. Those old cobble stone streets look lovely to stroll. But I would wear the right shoes! Would love to wander along the shore and see the lighthouse. Before heading for a great lunch.
Anda
You definitely need to go back and explore Argentina beyond the limits of Buenos Aires.
Jay Artale
Ever since visiting Iguazu Falls on the Brazilian side, I’ve wanted to go back and explore more of South America. Thanks for the tips about the ideal time to go .. the visual you used to show that is pretty neat. Is it a plugin?
Anda
You are welcome, Jay. Hope you’ll have a chance to return to Argentina.
Subhashish Roy
Amazing pictures which gives such great insight into this place. I would love to start off with a boat tour from La Tigre to visit the Paraná Delta. And then explore Colonia del Sacramento just the way you suggest. The Iguazu Falls would also be wonderful if possible. I would rather stay for two days to explore this beautiful place which has so much to offer.
Anda
There are quite a few nice day trips from Buenos Aires and yes, La Tigre is one of them.
Jennifer Prince
This sounds like a great day trip, but I’d definitely take the one hour option to make it quicker. The ferry ride alone sounds like it would be a fun way to get across. Also, I’d love to see the ruins – I always enjoy exploring places like that!
Jenna Sheehy
If we only have 3 days in Buenos Aires, would you still suggest a day trip here? We cant decide!
Anda Galffy
If you only have 3 days in Buenos Aires don’t go anywhere else. There is so much to see and do in this great city. Colonia del Sacramento is a very cute little town, but can’t compare to Buenos Aires.
Fiorella
OMG. I was just reading your notes from your trip to Zermatt and then realized that you had also travelled to Uruguay. I live in Canada but I am originally from Uruguay. I am glad to hear to you liked Colonia. The pictures are wonderful.
And I can confirm that everything you wrote is 100% accurate.
Muchas gracias
Anda Galffy
Thank you, Fiorella. I’d love to visit your country of origin more in depth. Uruguay looks so beautiful!
Jennifer Melroy
It looks like you made the best of your time. I am glad you found something to do when that volcano ruined your plans. I have always been on the fence about visiting Uruguay. I may have to rethink that.
Anna Faustino
I have actually never heard of this place but after reading your account of your time their, matched with your incredible photos, I am keeping this place in mind when planning my next trip.
Christina
Currently planning a trip to Argentia and was looking into Colonia as a day trip. Looks like a nice town to stroll around and take in the views. Did you do any other day trips outside of Argentina from Buenos Aires?
Mags
Beautiful photos. I love the architectures and all of the colors!
Toni | 2 Aussie Travellers
Your photos capture the historic aspects of the city so beautifully. What a happy accident that you ended up there.
Brigid
I can just imagine walking down the little streets. The photos are amazing! Great post! Thanks so much for sharing!
Vicki Louise
Just think, if the volcano hadn’t have erupted you would have missed this beautiful place! I think nature conspires to send us on the path that we may not have been expecting. It’s one of the prettiest UNESCO heritage sites I’ve ever seen – and Bariloche will be there for next time! As always Anda, great photos 🙂
Monika
I loved this little town! Spent two days there (one night) on my way to Montevideo and it was a lovely time. I also found wandering up and down the streets of Barrio Historico one of the most interesting things to do.
And the old cars in the streets! 🙂
Jackie Sills-Dellegrazie
You certainly took lemons and made lemonade! What a cute town..no wonder it’s a UNESCO Heritage site. The cobblestone streets, little homes, and the inside of that church could not be more charming. Looks like a great place to stroll and enjoy the local vibes. 🙂
Anda Galffy
It certainly is Jackie. Thanks for your comment.
Cindy Hoffman
Wow, great history there and no wonder it is cited as one of the world’s best places to visit. I should be visiting Sacramento sometimes later this year. Thanks a lot for sharing this.
Cindy
Paula McInerney
Colonia is a town I would love to explore, purely based on your text and photos.
Anda Galffy
Good to hear my post stirred up your curiosity to see Colonia.
Corinne
What a gorgeous little town. I would love to go!
Lydia C. Lee
How stunning! And very European looking (I guess that’s a stupid thing to say…)
Anda Galffy
It’s interesting that you say that Lydia. I think you are right, Colonia does look a little European indeed.
Ana O
Beautiful shots! Colonia is a lovely little gem of a town. Thank you for the memories.
Anda Galffy
Thank you Ana. Did you ever visit Colonia?
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We spent several days in Colonia a few years ago. It is a wonderful place to visit. If you have the courage to hire a car there are lots of interesting things to see outside the old town as well as within its walls. We drove out to an abandoned bull ring which was built when bull fighting was still legal in Uruguay but not in Argentina. Bull fighting was banned shortly after it opened and it became a huge white elephant. Now it sit in the middle of a roundabout – quite a curiosity.
Anda Galffy
Very interesting, Lyn. I would have liked to see the bull fighting arena, but we din’t have a car.
Linda Bibb
Wow, Anda, no wonder Colonia is a UNESCO site! I am enchanted by the architecture and those wonderful old cars. Dan and I once talked about moving to Uruguay because of the country’s excellent standard of living. I’ll bet Colonia is quite a draw for expats. I know I’d enjoy living in a place like that.
Anda Galffy
I’m sure it’s a nice place to live if you are ready to become an expat, but I already immigrated once and I think it’s enough for this lifetime, ha,ha,ha!